OPINION
On the unpredictability of outcomes of immunotherapy and preventive immunization against COVID-19
Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
Correspondence should be addressed: Igor V. Chebotar
Ostrovityanova, 1, Moscow, 117997; ur.xednay@nnrazin
Author contribution: the authors equally contributed to the manuscript
This article analyzes the possibility of employing immunotherapy and preventive immunization to fight COVID-19. The authors think that treatment and prevention of the infection with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies can have unpredictable outcomes. Although these antibodies can neutralize virus antigens (S-proteins), they also have the ability to enhance virus entry into the host cell. The article emphasizes the importance of solid evidence of efficacy and safety for candidate anti-COVID-19 therapies and protective measures.
Keywords: coronavirus, immunotherapy, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, antibodies, preventive immunization